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Divine Mercy Funeral Home - Fort Wayne

3500 Lake Avenue

Fort Wayne, Indiana

John Woenker Obituary

John Joseph Woenker, 81, of Fort Wayne, It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Joseph Woenker, who left us peacefully on June 27, 2025, at the age of 81. He was born on October 2nd, 1943, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Bernard E. and Irene (Vogeding) Woenker. John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose presence left a lasting mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. John's journey in pharmacy began at the age of 15 when he began delivering prescriptions by bicycle for Keltsch Pharmacy. While continuing to work for Keltsch, he pursued his studies at Purdue University, graduating in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy. His dedication and strong work ethic led him to manage several Keltsch Pharmacy locations before rising to Director of Pharmacy and becoming a part-owner of the local pharmacy chain. John dedicated his life to serving others, especially through his career as a pharmacist, where he was known for his expertise, kindness, and the compassionate care he showed to all-earning the trust and friendship of many in the community until his retirement. John is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Patricia Woenker; his devoted children, Jeffrey (Kim) Woenker, Jill (Chad) Buhr, and Jay (Annah) Woenker; and 14 treasured grandchildren. He also leaves behind his loyal four-legged companions, Katie and Dixie. John's warmth, generous heart, and signature "eye winks" will be dearly missed. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Joseph Woenker. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the public visitation at Divine Mercy Funeral Home-Cedar Canyons, 1986 W. Cedar Canyons Rd., Huntertown, IN, on Monday, July 7th, 2025, from 2-4 PM & 6-8 PM. The rosary will be prayed at 1:30 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 1502 E. Wallen Rd., Fort Wayne, IN, on Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior, where we will celebrate John's life and the many wonderful memories we have of him. Following the service, John will be laid to rest in entombment at the Catholic Cemetery located at 3500 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be left at www.divinemercyfuneralhome.com. In this time of sorrow, let us come together to honor a great man who brought joy and love to the lives of so many. John will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Fort Wayne Newspapers on Jul. 5, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for John Woenker

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3 Entries

Pilling

July 6, 2025

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. I worked for Keltsch `s 14 years . So sorry to see this! Gary & Becky Pilling

Kathy B

July 5, 2025

Once, when my son was a small baby, we had gone to the doctor. Even though the pharmacy was closed, he waited for me and let me in so my baby could get his prescription. I have never forgotten that. May he rest in peace.

Dave & Janet Uncapher

July 3, 2025

John Woenker has been a close friend of ours for almost 60 years. We met John when he started dating Pat back in the 1960's. Little did we know that Jan's parents had been friends of Barney & Irene Woenker (John's parents) for many years prior to that!! Jan's mom loved having coffee at Keltsch Pharmacy on West State with her lady friends and always spoke highly of John and his friendliness. John beamed with a smiling face and a giving heart. Our family was always invited to their Air Show parties when they lived on Ludwig Road across from Smith Field. We had so much fun, and John & Pat were perfect hosts. We can't begin to share all of the times we enjoyed eating out and enjoying their company. John was dedicated to his job and his family and will be remembered forever as "an all-around good guy"! We loved him!

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Memorial Events
for John Woenker

Jul

7

Visitation

2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Divine Mercy Funeral Home - Huntertown

1986 West Cedar Canyons Road, Huntertown, IN 46748

Jul

7

Visitation

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Divine Mercy Funeral Home - Huntertown

1986 West Cedar Canyons Road, Huntertown, IN 46748

Jul

8

Service

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church

1502 Wallen Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46825

Jul

8

Service

12:30 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Fort Wayne Catholic Cemetery

3500 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46805

Funeral services provided by:

Divine Mercy Funeral Home - Fort Wayne

3500 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805

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